Lighting system and method

ABSTRACT

A system ( 100 ) and method ( 900 ) for illuminating the interior space ( 90 ) of a trailer ( 84 ). The system ( 100 ) can utilize a power box ( 200 ) to draw and store electricity from a tractor ( 82 ) and use that electricity to activate LED assemblies ( 300 ) within the trailer ( 84 ) is untethered from the tractor ( 82 ). The lights ( 310 ) can be activated by a motion sensor ( 340 ) associated with the location of the lights ( 310 ) being activated.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This utility patent application claims priority to the following patentapplications which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety: (a) the provisional application titled “LIGHTING SYSTEM ANDMETHOD” (Ser. No. 63/061,178) that was filed on Aug. 5, 2020; and (b)the utility application titled “LIGHTING SYSTEM AND METHOD” (Ser. No.17/395,383) that was filed on Aug. 5, 2021 and that issued as U.S. Pat.No. 11,661,001 on May 30, 2023.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention is a lighting system and method (collectively the“system”). The system uses modular components that enable users toimplement effective and robust lighting configurations designed toaddress the lighting requirements of the particular users and operatingenvironments of the system. The system was originally conceptualized foruse in the interior of a truck trailer, but the system can beimplemented in other environments.

The trucking industry is critical to the economy of the United States.According to the markets.businessinser.com website, the domestictrucking industry in the U.S. generated just over $700 billion dollarsin 2017. This is larger than the GDP of all but 32 countries in theworld. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2018, 5.8% of allfull-time workers in the US have jobs in the trucking industry. 10.8billion tons of freight were moved via truck in 2017 according theAmerican Trucking Associations. Trucks are reported to move 70% of allgoods transported in the US. Some experts have predicted that mostgrocery stores would start running out of food within just 3 days afterlong-haul truckers stopped working. The average professional long-haultrucker logs more than 100,000 miles per year. Throughout the 2020COVID-19 pandemic, truck drivers have been classified as essentialpersonnel. Truck freight is expected to grow by 6% in 2021.

Given the importance of truck freight to the economy, the trailer of atruck is precious and yet non-optimized real estate. The interior of thetrailer is repeatedly loaded and unloaded. The loading and unloading ofa trailer interior often occur at nighttime or in otherwise inadequatelight from dark conditions resulting from poor lighting with the traileritself. Despite the importance of trucking and the need for a well-litinterior space during the loading and unloading of the interior of thetrailer, prior art lighting technologies are inadequate and lacking inmany important ways. Insufficient lighting can often lead to personalinjuries, damage to cargo, delays in the unloading and loading of thetrailer, and the otherwise needlessly non-optimal loading and unloadingof the trailer,

Prior art solutions to the problem of trailer lighting inevitably sufferfrom a lack of durability, a lack of configurability, and theconstraints of being tethered. Many trailer lighting systems involveextrusions that are subject to being hit by forklifts during the loadingor unloading of the trailer, resulting in such lights being damagedand/or dislodged.

Prior art lighting systems utilized within the interiors of trailerstypically use flat structures, which result in non-dimensional LEDemission. This creates a work environment that is literallyuncomfortable for human beings. Conventional power control boards oftenhave problems caused by high temperatures and the absence of a heat sinkand are prone to electrical shorts caused by condensation, which can bea common occurrence resulting from different temperatures within theinterior and exterior of the trailer. Such systems utilize fragiletwo-connectors without universal port connections. Soldering, scotchlock failures, difficult component replacements, and other undesirableattributes plague such prior art approaches.

It would be desirable for a more resilient, efficient, modular,customizable, and easy to install lighting system to be incorporatedinto the trailer interiors used in the trucking industry today.

The system is described in greater detail below in the Summary of theInvention section.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention is a lighting system and method (collectively the“system”). The system uses modular components that enable users toimplement effective, robust, and highly configurable lightingconfigurations that address the lighting requirements of the particularusers and operating environments of the system. The system wasoriginally conceptualized for use in the interior of a truck trailer,but the system can be implemented in other environments.

The system can use a power box to power multiple LED assemblies used togenerate light. The system can be implemented as recess lights inbetween the ribs near the ceiling in the interior area.

The system can be manufactured and sold as a “kit” that mechanics,technicians, truck drivers themselves, or other personnel can installwithin the interior of the trailer. The system can be utilized to lightthe interior of the trailer whether or not the trailer is attached tothe tractor at that time. The untethered trailer can draw power from abatter within the power box to provide the desired lighting. Theluminosity of the system can be implemented in a substantially modularmanner, with lighting components and/or batteries being added orsubtracted. In many embodiments, it may be optimal to use 8 lights tobest luminate the interior of a semi-trailer, with the expectation ofgenerating 5 hours of continuous light before the recharging of thebattery is required. The battery can be recharged through the use ofsolar panels, the power system of the trailer, or an external powersource.

The system can be better understood by referencing the drawingsdiscussed below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Different examples of various attributes, components, and configurationsthat can be incorporated into the system are illustrated in the drawingsdescribed briefly below. No patent application can expressly disclose inwords or in drawings, all of the potential embodiments of an invention.In accordance with the provisions of the patent statutes, theprinciples, functions, and modes of operation of the system areillustrated in certain preferred embodiments. However, it must beunderstood that the system may be practiced otherwise than isspecifically illustrated without departing from its spirit or scope.

FIG. 1A is a perspective diagram illustrating an example of a truck thatcan utilize the system.

FIG. 1B is a rear-view diagram illustrating an example of a truck thatcan utilize the system.

FIG. 1C is a rear diagram illustrating an example of an interior spacethat is behind the rear doors of the trailer in FIG. 1B.

FIG. 1D is a rear-view diagram of the interior space illustrating anexample of ribs dividing the space into cargo space and overhead space.

FIG. 1E is a side view diagram illustrating an example of a trailer thatcan utilize the system that is detached from the tractor, anillustration that includes the interior space.

FIG. 1F is a side view diagram illustrating an example of the trailer,including ribs that mark the border of the cargo space and the overheadspace.

FIG. 1G is a top view diagram of the interior space that correspondswith the side view of FIG. 1F.

FIG. 1H is a diagram similar to that of 1G except where panels fill thegaps between the ribs.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an example of the threecategories of assemblies and components that comprise the system.

FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating an example a system thatincludes an option solar charging kit that provides an additional way tocharge the batter in the power box.

FIG. 2C is a top-view block diagram illustrating an example of thesystem that includes 1 power box and 8 LED assemblies, with theconnectors, power box, and light assemblies being positioned in theoverhead space.

FIG. 2D is a top-view block diagram illustrating an example of thesystem that includes 1 power box, 8 LED assemblies, 1 trailer harness410, 4 splitter harnesses, and 3 jumper harnesses.

FIG. 2E is an example of a view of the ceiling from within the interiorspace in which the system has been installed.

FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating examples of the differentcomponents that can included in the power box.

FIG. 3B is an exploded view diagram illustrating an example of a powerbox.

FIG. 3C is a vertical view diagram illustrating an example of the powerbox.

FIG. 3D is a front view diagram illustrating an example of the power box

FIG. 3E is a rear-view diagram illustrating an example of the power box.

FIG. 3F is a side view diagram illustrating an example of the power box.

FIG. 3G is an exploded view diagram illustrating an example of thecharging module assembly.

FIG. 3H is an exploded view diagram illustrating an example of thecharging module assembly that includes a gasket and a grommet.

FIG. 4A is a block diagram illustrating an example of the differentcomponents that can be included in the light assembly.

FIG. 4B is an exploded perspective view diagram illustrating an exampleof a light assembly.

FIG. 4C is a perspective view of the circuit board that can be used inthe light assembly.

FIG. 4D is a top view of the light assembly, the side that faces intothe interior when mounted in the interior.

FIG. 4E is a side view diagram illustrating an example of the lightassembly.

FIG. 4F is a bottom view diagram illustrating an example of the of thelight assembly.

FIG. 4G is a front view diagram illustrating an example of the of thelight assembly.

FIG. 4H is a front view diagram illustrating an example of the of thelight assembly.

FIG. 4I is a top view diagram illustrating an example of a light guide.

FIG. 4J is a side view diagram illustrating an example of a light guide.

FIG. 5A is a block diagram illustrating an example of connectors thatcan be used to form electrical circuits with the power box and lightassemblies.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of atrailer harness.

FIG. 5C is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of asplitter harness.

FIG. 5D is a perspective view diagram illustrating an example of ajumper harness.

FIG. 5E is a block diagram illustrating an example of the differentconnections between the components of the system.

FIG. 5F is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration ofconnectors.

FIG. 6A is a flow chart diagram illustrating an example of a method forinstalling the system.

FIG. 6B is a flow chart diagram illustrating an example of a method ofusing the system components as installed.

The system can be further understood by the text description providedbelow in the Detailed Description section.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The invention relates generally to the systems and methods forilluminating a space. More specifically, the invention is system andmethod for lighting the interior of a trailer (collectively the“system”). All element names and element numbers are listed and definedin Table 1 below.

I. ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Different examples of various attributes, components, and configurationsthat can be incorporated into system 100 are illustrated in the drawingsand described in Table 1. However, no patent application can expresslydisclose in words or in drawings, all of the potential embodiments of aninvention in a comprehensive manner. In accordance with the provisionsof the patent statutes, the principles, functions, and modes ofoperation of the system 100 are illustrated in certain preferredembodiments. However, it must be understood that the system 100 may bepracticed otherwise than is specifically illustrated without departingfrom its spirit or scope. Alternative embodiments of the system 100 canbe described and categorized on the basis of a variety of variables,such as number of LED assemblies, different types of ways to rechargethe battery 210, different positional and geometry configurations withinthe interior space 90, etc.

II. ADVANTAGES TO USERS

The system can be implemented in such a manner as to vastly improve thesafety and productivity of loading and unloading trucks.

The battery in the power box allows the system to illuminate theinterior of a truck even when the trailer is not tethered to the tractorand its power source.

The system is highly configurable, so the different numbers of lightassemblies can be installed in different configurations to meet theneeds of the particular operating environment as well as the operatorsof the truck.

The components of the system are easy to install. When coupled with thehighly modular nature of the components, it would be easy to sell thesystem as “kits”!

Current lighting solutions are difficult to fasten to specificlocations, and they are easily damaged by high temperatures, the impactof condensation on electronic components, and the physical impact ofloading and unloading cargo from the cargo area. The system can beimplemented almost exclusively in the unused or at least underusedoverhead space above the ribs and above the cargo space of the interior.Only the very thin light assemblies take up any cargo space, and asrecess lights, they take only a sliver.

The power box which in a preferred embodiment is affixed to a surface inthe overhead space provides an electrical infrastructure that is usefulfor lighting, is capable of being charged through variety of differentmeans, including the battery in the tractor, a connected solar powerassembly, or even by plugging in to a conventional power outlet. Thatelectrical infrastructure can find additional uses in the future thathave little to do with lighting.

By using “smart” processors, energy consumption can be minimized, riskto equipment avoided, and the storing of electricity for a later timecan be maximized. The system can deliver 5-8 hours of lighting betweencharges, which is more than enough for a typical loading and unloadingof the cargo area.

By including a motion detector in each lighting assembly, illuminationis provided as needed. There is no reason to light up an entire53-foot-long trailer if only a small portion is being used. Eachlighting assembly is “smart” with its own infrared sensor, LED lights,and motion detector.

III. GLOSSARY OF TERMS

All terminology associated with an element number is defined in Table 1below.

TABLE 1 Ele- ment Num- Element ber Name Definition/Description 80 TruckA vehicle that includes a trailer 84 for carrying cargo and a tractor 82for enabling the movement of the trailer 84 and the cargo within thetrailer 84. The system 100 can be implemented in a wide variety ofdifferent operating environments, but the system 100 was originallyconceptualized in the context of semi-trucks. In most truck 80embodiments, the tractor 82 can be separated from the trailer 84. Thesystem 100 can be implemented in environments not limited to trucks 80.82 Tractor The portion of the truck 80 that is capable of being drivenas a vehicle and enabling the movement of the trailer 84. 84 Trailer Theportion of the truck 80 that includes an interior 90 into which cargocan be loaded and from which cargo can be unloaded. 90 Interior The areainside the trailer 84. The inside of a trailer 84 typically includesribs 82 which vertically divide the interior space 90 into cargo space96 and overhead space 94. 92 Rib A member that horizontally traversesthe interior 90 of the trailer 84 in a vertical position that is closeto the ceiling or top of the interior 90. The system 100 is typicallyinstalled as recess lights between ribs 92, utilizing the ribs 92 toboth help secure the position of the components of the system 100 aswell as to partially shield the components of the system 100 from beingimpacted by the movement of forklifts, cargo, and operator personnel. 94Overhead Space above and between the ribs 92 in which the Spacecomponents of the system 100 are positioned. The various connectors 400of the system 100 can be located in the overhead space 94, whichprevents components from being accidentally dislodged when cargo isloaded into or unloaded out of the interior 90. 96 Cargo Space below theribs 92 where cargo is loaded, Space stored for transport, andsubsequently loaded. 97 Gap The empty space between ribs 92. 98 Panel Atile or other thin material used to fill in a gap 97 between ribs 92.Panels 98 and ribs 92 collectively separate the overhead space 94 fromthe cargo space 96 and create a substantially uniform ceiling in thecargo space 94. 100 System A configuration of assemblies and componentsthat perform the function of illuminating the interior 90 of the trailer84 so that it can be loaded, unloaded, inspected, and otherwise utilizedin an efficient and safe manner. The system 100 can include one or morepower boxes 200 and one or more light assemblies 300 that are connectedby one or more connectors 400. 200 Power A power box 200 is an assemblyof Box components that are collectively configured to deliverelectricity to one or more light assemblies 300 so that the system 100can illuminate the interior 90 of the trailer 84. The power box 200 caninclude components such as a battery 210 and charging module 220. Thepower box 200 can enable the system 100 to function (i.e., illuminatethe interior 90) even when the trailer 84 is not attached to the tractor82 and as such is unable to draw power from the tractor 82. The powerbox 200 enables the system 100 to function when the tractor 82 isuntethered from the trailer 84. The power box 200 can draw power fromthe tractor 82 when the tractor 82 is tethered to the trailer 84. 210Battery A device for storing electricity that is capable of beingrecharged. A battery 210 consists of one or more cells in which chemicalenergy is converted into electricity and used a as a source of power. Inmany embodiments, the battery 210 is a 12 VDC AGM battery capable ofproviding between 5-8 hours of light between charging. 220 Charging Anassembly that is used for charging the Module battery 210. The chargingmodule can utilize solar power, power from the tractor 82, or anexternal power source such as an AC outlet to recharge the batter 210.221 Circuit This can also be referred to as the power box circuit Boardboard 221 since each light assembly 300 can include its own circuitboard.320. The circuit board 221 can implement a charging algorithm toensure maximum battery life, as well as provide for over chargeprotection, a low voltage cut-out function, and vehicle jump startprotection. The circuit board 221 can include a processor to manage thefunctions of the charging module 220. 222 Cover This component can alsobe referred to as the charging module cover 222 as other components ofthe system 100 can include coverage components. The cover 222 enclosesthe interior components of the charging module 220, such as the circuitboard. The cover 222 typically constitutes the top of the chargingmodule 220 and the top of the power box 200. 223 Case A structuralcomponent that in conjunction with the cover 222, enclose the circuitboard 221. This component can also be referred to as the charging modulecase 223. 224 Fastener The charging module can use a variety ofdifferent fasteners 224 such as bolts, screws, nuts, washers, and othersimilar mechanisms. 225 Cable In a preferred embodiment the cable 225 isa Pigtail ASM cable. 226 Grommet An optional cover over the cable 225.227 Gasket An optional component to keep moisture away from the circuitboard 221. 228 Mating This plug or connector is where the 6-way Plug endof the trailer harness 410 is plugged into the charging module 220 ofthe power box 200. This component can also be referred to as a matingconnector 228. 230 Foam A substrate of material adjacent to the batteryLiner 210 that protects the battery 210 and increases the durability ofthe battery 210. 240 Mounting A structure used to securely position thepower Plate box 200 within the interior space 90 of the trailer 84,typically in the overhead space 94. 250 Case A component of the powerbox 200 that consists of a surface that constraints the position ofother components of the power box 200. This component can also bereferred to as the power box case. 255 Cap A structural component of thepower box 200 Cover that is vertically at the opposite end of the powerbox 200 from the charging module assembly 220 and the mating plug 228.260 Cover A component of the power box 200 that closes off the case 250from the exterior environment of the interior space 90. This componentcan also be referred to as the power box cover. 270 Wire A structuralcomponent used to secure the Guide position of the cable 225 componentsof the power box 200 relative to each other. 280 Fasteners Screws,bolts, washers, and other similar connectors used to secure differentcomponents of the power box 200 together. 290 Frame A structuralcomponent that interfaces between the mounting plate 240 and the rest ofthe power box 200. 300 Light A configuration of components thatcollectively Assembly receive power from the power box 200 in order togenerate light within the interior space 90. The light assembly 300 canalso be referred to as Lamp Assembly 300 or an LED Assembly 300, as thelamps 310 are typically LEDs 310. The LED assembly 300 can includecomponents such as LEDs 310, circuit boards (CBs) 320, self-adhesivestickers 330, motion sensors 340, lenses 350, covers 360, bases 370,seals 380, cables 390, and fasteners 398. 310 LED or A light source. Inmost embodiments, a light Lamp emitting diode 310. 320 CB or A circuitboard used to control the turning Control on and turning off of LEDs310. This Board component can also be referred to as the light assemblycircuit board 320. The circuit board 320 can include a processor tomanage the functions of the charging module 220. 330 Self- A stickerused to secure the position of the LED adhesive assembly 300 in theinterior space 90. sticker 340 Motion A device connected to the circuitboard 320 Sensor such that movement of objects or people automaticallytriggers the activation of the desired LED or LEDs 310 based on thelocation of the detected movement. 350 Lens A substrate used to directlight in an efficient pattern 355 Light A structure for directing light,typically Guide cone shape and mirrored to make the resulting light lessharsh to human eyes. 360 Cover A structure or surface for constrainingthe components of the light assembly 300. 370 Base A structure thatsupports the sticker 320 and the light assembly 300. 380 Seal Acomponent that closes off the interior of the light assembly 300 fromthe exterior environment. 390 Cable Power line extending outward fromLED assembly 300 that can be plugged into a connector 400 of the system100, typically a splitter harness 440. 398 Fasteners Screws, bolts,nuts. washers, and other similar connectors used to secure differentcomponents of the light assembly 300 together. 400 Connector A wire ofcable that is capable of delivering electrical current. 410 Trailer Aconnector 400 used by the system Harness 100 to connect to the power box200 to the various light assemblies 300, the power source on the tractor82, to ground, and optionally, to a solar power kit 500. 412 6-Way Amating mechanism on one end of the Connector trailer harness 410. 440Splitter A connector 400 used in conjunction with jumper Harnessharnesses 400 to implement a flexible, modular, and configurable chainof light assemblies 300 powered through the power box 200. The splitharness has four prongs, each of which are “dummy proof” to preventdamage from user error. 442 Molex A mating mechanism on the splitterharness 440. Connector 470 Jumper A 1 to 1 connector used to string along a series or Harness sequence of splitter harnesses 400. 472 Molex Amating mechanism on the jumper harness 470. Connector 500 Solar Anoptional assembly or kit that includes Charging solar panels which canbe connected to the Kit power box 200, enabling the use of solar powerto charge the battery 220. 900 Method A process relating to the system100. 910 Installation A process for installing the system 100 Methodwithin a particular interior space 90. The process can include stepssuch as analyzing the space at 912, determining a number of LEDassemblies 300 at 914, and positioning the desired components of thesystem 100 relative to the ribs 92 in the interior space. 950 Method Aprocess of using the system 100 of Use within a particular interiorspace 90. The process can include steps such as charging the battery at952, automatically (without human intervention) detecting movement usingthe motion sensors at 954, automatically (without human intervention)activating the corresponding LEDs at 956, and automatically turning offthe activated LEDs after a period of time at 958.

IV. OVERVIEW

The system 100 is a more resilient, modular, and efficient way to lightthe interior space of a trailer. It can function when the trailer isstanding alone, separate, detached, and untethered from the tractor.However, while the trailer is attached to the trailer, the battery usedto power to lights of the system can draw power from the tractor. Thesystem uses sensors to only activate lights that are in areas where theyare needed. The system can be sold as a kit that is implemented intoexisting trailers, and it is easy to configure and install. Luminositycan be customized by adding or subtracting lights, as the system can beextremely modular in its design and capabilities. The battery can berecharged through the use of solar panels, the tractor battery, or anexternal AC outlet.

The cone-shaped geometry of the light guide in the LED assembly makesthe LED emission highly directional. This is something that isapplicable for Semi trailer use from the height it is located, thebrightness being omitted, and the number of lights being mounted tocover a 53-foot-long interior with overlapping lamps.

The circuit board in the light assembly can be laid out for maximumefficiency for heat, and allows prewiring, and motion sensing, andvoltage regulation. There is a heat sink to hold the circuit board awayfrom the ceiling. The size of the lamp itself to hide under a ceilingstrut. It is also made of durable and light way materials to withstandthe environment of the trailer, include large semi-trailers.

The power box holds the battery and a circuit board that controls thecharging and utilization of the batter. The power box cane be mountedusing fasteners to a surface in the trailer, preferably surfaces in theoverhead space. The circuit board in the power box can recharge itselfusing connections for solar and reverse polarity protection. The foammounting on the battery for durability. The power box circuit board isprotected and utilizes easy to connect and disconnect cables.

The light assemblies use a highly reliable trunk cable to draw powerfrom the battery box using durable and small connectors that are oneway. Any port may work in a “plug and play” fashion. The operator canconnect as many or as few as desired. No soldering, no scotch lockfailures, and individual LEDs in need of replacing can be easilyreplaced on an individual basis given the modular design. The lights areplaced in between the ribs, recessed, that is why they can only be sodeep in their assembly. They must be below the ribs. During installationit would be wise to set them close to the rib for further protection.

The power box houses a battery that can be replaced, if need be, and ithouses the circuit board for the controlling of current to lights andredirection of charge to battery for recharging. It also protects fromvoltage spikes and current reversal.

Because of the battery system the lights can be used for up to 5 hourscontinuously while the trailer is dropped, and then recharge can happenwith three methods.

Each light assembly can have its own motion sensor, its own circuitboard, and multiple LED lights. The circuit board can also regulatevoltage and wiring that that is a long a 53 trailer present an issuewith voltage drop.

The light is thin and has self-sticking adhesive. Each light has its ownmotion sensor it will save charge/life, and only light in area ofcontinuous work. Each light body is made to lift the circuit board awayfrom the hot trailer roof for longer life of the components. Each lightcan have a lens that directs the most efficient pattern to the trailer.Each light is pre-wired in advance prior to installation. The truckcable is already bound in loomed. The truck cable has a unique mountingattachment for the lights that can be done quickly without scotch locksor error of wiring, saving significant and avoiding the risk of lightsnot working. The system is truly an entire integrated system forlighting a trailer while being attached and unattached from the tractorwith lights specifically designed for the needs inside of a trailer,along with a thought-out process for installation, and life longevity.

V. OPERATING ENVIRONMENT

FIG. 1A is a perspective diagram illustrating an example of a truck 80that can utilize the system 100.

FIG. 1B is a rear-view diagram illustrating an example of a truck 80that can utilize the system 100.

FIG. 1C is a rear diagram illustrating an example of an interior space90 in front of the rear doors of the trailer in FIG. 1B.

FIG. 1D is a rear-view diagram of the interior space 90 illustrating anexample of ribs 92 dividing the space into cargo space 96 and overheadspace 94.

FIG. 1E is a side view diagram illustrating an example of a trailer 84that can utilize the system 100 that is detached from the tractor 82, anillustration that includes the interior space 90.

FIG. 1F is a side view diagram illustrating an example of the trailer90, including ribs 92 that mark the border of the cargo space 96 and theoverhead space 94.

FIGS. 1G and 1H illustrate the gaps 97 between ribs 92, and that gaps 97and be filled with panels 98.

Interior lighting within a trailer 84 is made very difficult by avariety of factors. The temperatures can get extremely hot. The purposeof the cargo area 96 is to load, move, and unload cargo. Any lightingconfiguration implemented in that environment is likely to be damaged byhigh temperatures and collisions that occur during the loading/unloadingprocess. Furthermore, a trailer 84 has no electrical power when it isnot tethered to the tractor 82. The system 100 was conceptualized toaddress these problems.

VI. SYSTEM AS A WHOLE

To provide better illumination of the trailer 84 during the loading andunloading of the cargo area 96 of the interior 90, the system 100utilizes the components illustrated in FIG. 2A.

The power box 200 intelligently controls and manages the electricalneeds of the system 100. A power box 200 is used to provide electricalpower to the system 100 when the trailer 84 is untethered from thetractor 82. A circuit board 221 within the power box 200 can: (1) applya charge algorithm to manage battery life; (2) involve protectionagainst overcharges; (3) perform cut out function if voltage gets toolow; (4) provide reverse battery protection; and (5) vehicle jump startprotection.

The light assemblies 300 provide the function of illumination. The lightassemblies 300 can use their own circuit board to control the activationof LED lights 310 using a motion sensor 340 sharing the same circuitboard. Lights 310 are only used as needed, to minimize the draining ofthe battery 210 in the power box 200. The light from the LEDs 310 isfiltered through a cone-shaped light guide 355 so that the light doesnot appear overly harsh to human beings.

These two components are electronically linked through a variety ofdifferent connectors 400. In a preferred embodiment of the system 100, atrailer harness 410 is used to put the power box 200 in the same circuitas the other components of the system 100. Alternating splitterharnesses 440 and jumper harnesses 470 have error proof matingcomponents to prevent user error and resulting damage to the componentsof the system 100.

As indicated in FIG. 2B, the system can integrate with other powersources such as a solar power kit 500. Conventional electrical outletscan also be used to charge the battery 210 in the power box 200.

FIG. 2C is a block diagram illustrating an example of the system thatincludes 1 power box and 8 LED assemblies. This represents a desirableconfiguration for many semi-trailers 84. FIG. 2C represents a similarconfiguration, using the preferred connectors of a trailer harness 410,4 splitter harnesses, and 3 jumper harnesses. The power box 200 and thevarious connectors 400 can be position in the overhead space 94, wherethey are unlikely to be damaged in the process of loading and unloadingcargo. The only component of the system 100 that must be positioned inthe cargo area 96 are the recessed lights of the light assembly 300,which can benefit from being positioned by a rib 92.

FIG. 2E is an example of a view of the ceiling from within the interiorspace in which the system has been installed.

The system 100 has many advantages. The configuration displayed in FIG.2C would be the only untethered lighting kit on the market. It canprovide 5-8 hours of light between charges. It can be installed easilyand is highly configurable. Each light assembly 300 can include its ownmotion detector 340, so lights are only used as needed—there is no needto light up the entire interior 90 each time. Such as system 100 hascomponents that can are less likely to be damaged, but if they aredamaged, they can be easily replaced.

VII. POWER BOX

FIGS. 3A through 3H illustrate different components of the power box200. In a preferred embodiment, a 12 Vdc AGM batter is used. The powerbox can perform the functions of an integrated battery manager using thecircuit board 320 to implement a various process to prevent overchargingof the battery, damage from low-voltage, reverse battery protection, andprovide a basis to jump start the truck 80. The power box 200 canprovide a fast on batter connection. The power box 200 can also provideintegrated resettable fuse protection.

The processing logic or “brains” of the power box is provided throughthe charging module 220 and its circuit board 221 which includes aprocessor.

The 6-way trailer harness 410 and the smart processor on the circuitboard 221 of the charging assembly transforms the power box 200 into amanager of the electrical needs of the trailer 84. The trailer harness410 can access trailer power, ground, inputs for the light assemblies,output for the light assemblies, as well as inputs and outputs for othersources of electricity such as a solar power assembly 500, an exteriorelectrical outlet, or the battery in the tractor.

The mounting plate 240 of the power box 200 allows the power box 200 tobe secured in a variety of desirable and out of the way locations withinthe interior 80. Impact resistant polycarbonate end caps and anodizedaluminum to protect the mounting from moisture and other potentialenvironmental challenges. The batter 210 with in the power box 200 ishighly modular and can be replaced without replacing the othercomponents of the power box 200. The charging module 220 isself-contained even within the otherwise contained power box 200. Thespace for holding the battery 210 provides for error proof batteryorientation. Power can ground terminals can be concealed within thebattery body to prevent accidental electrical shorts.

The collective impact of a configuration that includes a frame, a foamliner, a self-contained charging module, a top cover and lower cap coverserve to avoid the keep the power box sealed tight from the outsideworld while also compartmentalizing any interior damage.

VIII. LAMP ASSEMBLY

FIGS. 4A-4J illustrated different components, views, and configurationsof the light assemblies 300. The granular functionality of having localprocessors on the circuit boards 320 with their own lights 310 and theirmotion detectors 340 to control the lights 310 on that bored. The lens350 and light guide 355 make the illumination more user friendly. Thelight guide 355 is cone shaped and made of reflective material in apreferred embodiment of the system 100.

The ability to add, remove, or reposition the lamp assemblies 300 (whichcan also be referred to as light assemblies 300) provides truckoperators which an ongoing and highly flexible illuminationinfrastructure within the trailers of their trucks.

Each light assembly 300 can include its own circuit board and processorused to monitor, manage, and control a motion sensor and the LED lightsaffixed to that particular light assembly 300. Thus, the lightassemblies 300 function independently of each other even if theelectrical power is driven in series through the chain of connectors400.

The circuit boards 320 and processors of the lamp assemblies 300 canperform onboard voltage compensation to provide uniform light output.The light assemblies 300 can provide “on time”.

In certain contexts, an adhesive may not be the most desirable way tomount the light assemblies 300, in which case cap mounts and fastenerscan be used.

VIII. CONNECTORS

FIGS. 5A-5F illustrate different example of connectors 400 and differentconfigurations of connectors 400.

The trailer harness 410 can provide a 6-way connector that integratesthe power box into the different components in the trailer 84.

The splitter harness 440 in alternative sequence with the jumper harness470 provide the ability to add lighting assemblies 300 as desired, or toremove them as desired. FIGS. 5E and 5F illustrated a configuration ofconnectors 400 that can be used in a preferred embodiment of the system100.

IX. METHODS

A. Method of Installing

As illustrated in FIG. 6A, the system 100 can be installed using aninstallation method 910 comprising.

Assessing the needs of the space occurs at 912.

Positioning the power box 200 and light assemblies 300 occurs at 920.

Connecting the power box 200 and light assemblies 300 occurs at 930.This is done with the applicable connectors 400.

B. Method of Using

FIG. 6B illustrates an example of a method of using the installed system100.

At 960, one or more lamp assemblies 300 are activated by the detectionof motion by the application motion detector 340.

At 970, when motion is no longer detected for a predefined period oftime, the lights are turned off by the circuit board 320 in control ofthat specific motion sensor 340 and those specific lights 310.

1. A system (100) that is adapted for use in the selective illuminationof the interior (90) of a trailer (84) of a tractor (82), said system(100) comprising: a power box (200) positioned within the interior ofthe trailer (84); and a light assembly (300) positioned within theinterior of the trailer (84); wherein said light assembly (300) isadapted to illuminate the interior (90) of the trailer (84); and whereinsaid power box (200) provides electricity to said light assembly (300).2. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the trailer (84) is not tetheredto the tractor (82).
 3. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the trailer(84) is tethered to the tractor (82).
 4. The system (100) of claim 1,said system (100) further comprising a plurality of said lightassemblies (300), said plurality of light assemblies (300) including afirst light assembly (300) and a second light assembly (300) whereinsaid first light assembly (300) operates independently of said secondlight assembly (300).
 5. The system (100) of claim 4, wherein each saidlight assembly (300) includes a plurality of lights (310) that receivepower from said power box (200) and a motion sensor (340) thatselectively activates said lights (310) on said light assembly (300). 6.The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said power box (200) is positionedabove a rib (92) in the interior (90) of the trailer (84).
 7. The system(100) of claim 1, wherein said light assembly (300) is positioned abovea rib (92) in the interior (90) of the trailer (84).
 8. The system (100)of claim 1, said power box (200) including a battery (210) for storingelectricity and a charging assembly (220) for charging said battery(210).
 9. The system (100) of claim 1, said system (100) furthercomprising a connector (400) between said power box (200) and said lightassembly (300).
 10. The system (100) of claim 9, said system (100)further comprising a plurality of connectors (400), said plurality ofconnectors (400) including a first connector (400) adapted to draw powerfrom the tractor (82) to said power box (200) and a second connector(400) deliver power from said power box (200) to said light assembly(300).
 12. The system (100) of claim 9, said plurality of connectors(400) including a trailer harness (410), a 6-way connector (412), asplitter harness (440), a molex connector (442), and a jumper harness(470).
 13. The system (100) of claim 1, said system (100) furthercomprising a solar charging kit (500) that is adapted to charge saidpower box (200).
 14. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein said lightassembly (300) includes a plurality of lights (310) that are LEDs, alight guide (355) for each said light (310), a control board (320) forturning said lights (310) on and off, a self-adhesive sticker (330) forsecuring said light assembly (300) within the interior (90) of thetrailer (84), wherein said light guide (355) has a conical shape, andwherein said plurality of lights (310) cannot be activated by anycomponent other than the motion sensor (340) within that same said lightassembly (300).
 15. A system (100) that is adapted for use in theselective illumination of the interior (90) of a trailer (84) of atractor (82), said system (100) comprising: a power box (200) positionedwithin the interior (90) of the trailer (84), said power box (200)including a battery (210) for storing electricity and a chargingassembly (220) for charging said battery (210); a light assembly (300),said light assembly (300) including a light (310) that receives powerfrom said battery (210) and a motion sensor (340) for triggering theactivation of said lamp (310) using electricity from said power box(200); and a plurality of connectors (400) for delivering electricity toand from the power box (200).
 16. A system (100) that is adapted for usein the selective illumination of the interior (90) of a trailer (84) ofa tractor (82), said system (100) comprising: a power box (200)positioned within the interior of the trailer (84); and a light assembly(300) positioned within the interior of the trailer (84); wherein saidlight assembly (300) is adapted to illuminate the interior (90) of thetrailer (84); and wherein said power box (200) provides electricity tosaid light assembly (300).
 17. A method (950) for illuminating aninterior (90) of a trailer (84) that is adapted to be pulled by atractor (82) with a lighting system (100) that includes a power box(200) and a lighting assembly (300) positioned within the interior (90)of the trailer (84), said method (900) comprising: activating (960) thelight assembly (300) using a motion sensor (320); and deactivating (970)the light assembly (300) after no subsequent motion is detected by themotion sensor (320) after a predefined period of time.
 18. The method(950) of claim 17, wherein the trailer (84) is not tethered to thetractor (82).
 19. The method (950) of claim 17, wherein said lightingsystem (100) includes a plurality of lighting assemblies (300), whereineach said lighting assembly (300) has its own said motion sensor (320),and wherein each said lighting assembly (300) operates independently ofother lighting assemblies (300).
 20. The method (950) of claim 17,wherein said power box (200) and said light assembly (300) arepositioned above a plurality of ribs (92) in the interior (90) of thetrailer (84).